Roblewis wrote:I just wish my neighbour would let me round to treat my fence. I would not even mind if they applied a different colour than I have - but at least try to help its preservation.

What type of fence is it, fences are seldom so thick that preservative applied on one side doesn't penetrate, at least partially, to the other side. Spray or brush application are both suitable, depending on the circumstances.

Can assure everyone that the correct fence treatment be it Cuprinol /Wickes or ronseal ..............shed and fence PRESERVATIVE will soak right through even the thickest featheredge never mind overlap panels

arborlad wrote:The OPs actions, which were carried out innocently, without malice and with the best of intentions are being grossly maligned with accusations of events that simply didn't happen.

There was nothing done to the fence that would shorten its life, so there can be no damage, at the very worst, it has been defaced.

I agree. Offer a bottle of wine perhaps, or to re-treat the fence in a manner which the neighbour prefers. A pressure-washer will easily take off most of the visible surface effect, and after drying it can be treated, stained or left au naturale.

Spray applicators are perfectly OK, if sensible care is taken re overspray.